This includes young children who are being looked after by childminders. Our aim is to ensure children have their learning and education needs identified and assessed in a more effective way so they receive the right support at the right time.
We have been listening to what people think works well and what needs to be changed or done differently. We now want to see what you think about the changes we are suggesting.
The proposals include ways to reduce waiting times for support and to simplify processes for children and families as well as early years providers and other professionals.
“We want to strengthen the support that we provide to early years...”
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services, Sue Chandler said: “Every child is an individual, helping parents and carers to get the right support that they need for their child as early as possible is so important.
“Early and timely intervention enables children to get the best start in life. This is especially true for children from disadvantaged backgrounds and for children who may have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
“We want to strengthen the support that we provide to early years settings at a universal level which will make sure that all children can benefit from an inclusive education and support in their early years.”
“Every child deserves to have a great start in life.”
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Rory Love said: “The first years of a child’s life are full of important milestones and are crucial for their future development.
“Every child deserves to have a great start in life.
“Our proposals make it easier all round for young children, their families, and the people caring for and educating them during these formative years. This means children can go to school ready to learn and play in happy and safe environments, and parents can have the confidence their child will receive high quality and inclusive education, backed up with the right support, without overly bureaucratic processes.”
Have your say by visiting kent.gov.uk/earlyyearsconsultation by Sunday, May 5.
To request paper copies or for any alternative formats, email alternativeformats@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 421553 (text relay service number 18001 03000 421553). This number goes to an answering machine, which is monitored during office hours.
ENDS
